Tips to safeguarding your vehicle with self storage during winter

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September 1, 2023

As the last leaves of autumn fall and winter's icy breath starts to settle, car owners face the annual challenge of protecting their cherished vehicles from the harsh realities of the season. While winter brings festive joy and cozy evenings by the fire, it also carries the potential for damage to our beloved rides. 

Luckily, the solution lies within the realm of self storage. In this all-encompassing guide, we will dive into the significance of utilizing self storage for safeguarding your vehicle during winter and provide a wealth of essential tips to ensure your automobiles emerge from storage in pristine condition.

Understanding the vitality of car winter storage

Winter's arsenal of challenges, including corrosive road salts and the perils of freezing temperatures on critical components, underscores the importance of choosing self storage. The reasons for this choice extend beyond convenience to necessity:

1. Weather Protection at its Finest: The combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain can turn your vehicle's exterior into a battleground of potential damage. Placing your car in a climate-controlled self storage unit acts as a shield against these elements, preventing rust, erosion, and paint deterioration.

1. Combatting Corrosion: While road salt is a winter road warrior, it can lead to extensive corrosion on the vehicle's undercarriage and metal components. Opting for self storage acts as a shield against the harmful effects of salt.

1. Extending Battery Life: The frigid temperatures of winter can put a significant dent in battery life. Storing your vehicle in a climate-controlled unit is akin to giving your battery a winter coat, protecting it from extreme temperature fluctuations and extending its lifespan.

1. Engine's Haven: The bitter cold can cause engine fluids to thicken, making it a challenge to start your vehicle. Entrusting your car to a climate-controlled self storage environment ensures your engine's fluids remain at optimal viscosity.

1. Tire Care and Maintenance: The cold can wreak havoc on tire pressure, leading to deflation and even flat spots when the vehicle sits idle. A self storage unit lets you maintain proper tire pressure, saving your tires from unnecessary wear and tear.

Essential guidelines for effective car winter storage

• Picking the Perfect Storage Haven: opt for a storage facility offering climate-controlled units. These units regulate temperature and humidity, providing the perfect cocoon for winter car storage. The controlled environment serves as a fortress against moisture-related harm stemming from temperature fluctuations.

• The Cleansing Ritual: Provide your vehicle with a thorough wash and a protective wax coat before entrusting it to storage. This double-duty not only enhances your vehicle's aesthetics but also erects a barrier against contaminants and moisture.

• Fluid Check and Balance: Before tucking your vehicle away, ensure that all fluids - from engine oil to brake fluid - are at recommended levels. Consider an oil change to purge any contaminants that might have accumulated during regular use.

• Fuel Wisdom: Fill your vehicle's tank before storage to prevent moisture buildup. Moisture in the fuel system can trigger corrosion and other adversities. Adding a fuel stabilizer can help maintain the fuel's freshness during storage.

• Battery Bonding: If feasible, disconnect your car's battery or employ a battery maintainer to prevent battery discharge. This ensures your car purrs to life without a hitch when it's time to reclaim it from storage.

• Elevate with Care: Elevate your vehicle on jack stands to relieve tire pressure. This guards against flat spots that might develop during prolonged periods of hibernation, a key step for extended storage.

• The Veil of Protection: A breathable car cover safeguards your vehicle from dust, debris, and potential scratches. Make certain the cover is securely fastened to prevent flapping in the wind, a potential source of paint damage.

• Fortifying Against Pests: Seal any openings that pests might exploit to infiltrate your storage space. Enhance protection by placing cotton balls infused with peppermint oil around your vehicle, deterring unwelcome critters.

• Occasional Check-Ins: Even if you're not planning to drive, occasional visits to your storage unit are valuable. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to prevent oil and fluids from settling and ensure your vehicle's overall health.

• Keeping Records Intact: Maintain a comprehensive checklist of all pre-storage tasks. This meticulous record-keeping guarantees you don't overlook vital steps and streamlines the process when you're ready to retrieve your vehicle.

• Security Matters: Opt for a storage facility with robust security features, including round-the-clock surveillance cameras, well-lit premises, and controlled access. Your vehicle's safety should always be a non-negotiable priority.

• Insurance Evaluation: Review your insurance policy to ensure your vehicle is adequately covered during its storage hiatus. Depending on anticipated usage, adjust your policy to reflect reduced activity during winter months.

Invest now for security later

Winter vehicle storage surpasses mere stowing away; it's a comprehensive strategy to shield your investment from winter's harsh grip. Opting for self storage during the colder months isn't just about convenience; it's about safeguarding against the corrosive effects of winter. From shielding your vehicle from the elements to thwarting corrosion and maintaining essential components, each tip mentioned herein plays a pivotal role in the care of your vehicle. 

By conscientiously following these guidelines, you ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road come spring, with its appearance and functionality intact. Embrace these proactive measures to ensure your cherished vehicle's longevity and optimal performance and let the winter months roll by without leaving their mark on your prized possession.

If you are thinking of car storage for this winter, now is a great time to be looking. Sentinel Storage is offering 25% off new winter car storage units at select locations from August 30, 2023, until March 31, 2024. Call 1-877-217-8673 to talk to one of our car storage specialists today for more information.